Summary

In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, host Wil Brawley speaks with Cliff Crider, CEO of Stinger Compliance and co-founder of Truck and Tap. They discuss Cliff's journey from working in fast food at Roy Rogers to becoming a real estate appraiser and eventually transitioning into the restaurant industry. Cliff shares insights on the challenges of running a restaurant, the importance of community engagement, and the creation of Stinger Compliance to help businesses stay legal with age-restricted products. The conversation highlights the resilience and dedication required in the hospitality industry. Crider also discusses the critical importance of compliance in the hospitality industry, particularly regarding alcohol sales. He emphasizes the need for effective policies and procedures to prevent underage sales and the innovative approach his company is taking to streamline the stinging process. The conversation also touches on the challenges of scaling a business in this sector and the balance between serving large clients and supporting local establishments. The two share insights on navigating the complexities of compliance and the importance of community engagement in the hospitality industry.

Takeaways

• Schedulefly simplifies restaurant employee scheduling.
• Cliff started in hospitality at Roy Rogers.
• Real estate knowledge helped Cliff in restaurant ownership.
• Truck and Tap combines food trucks and beer gardens.
• Community engagement is vital for restaurant success.
• The Giving Kitchen supports hospitality workers in crisis.
• Stinger Compliance focuses on legal compliance for age-restricted products.
• Bartenders must be vigilant about carding customers.
• The hospitality industry faces numerous challenges daily.
• Slow and deliberate growth is key to sustainable business. Compliance is crucial for the hospitality industry.
• Innovative solutions can streamline the stinging process.
• Establishing clear alcohol policies is essential for staff training.
• Scaling a business requires careful planning and execution.
• Community engagement is vital for local businesses.
• Understanding the nuances of fake IDs can prevent costly mistakes.
• Regular compliance checks can help maintain standards.
• Slow and deliberate growth is a sustainable strategy.
• Technology can enhance compliance efforts in the hospitality sector.
• Building strong relationships with clients fosters loyalty and trust.

Summary

In this conversation, Peter Yang, co-founder of Pokeworks, shares his journey from growing up in a family restaurant to establishing a successful poke restaurant chain. He discusses the challenges and lessons learned in the hospitality industry, the importance of customer service, and the strategic decisions that led to the birth and growth of Pokeworks. The conversation also delves into the franchising model and the criteria for selecting franchise partners, emphasizing the need for alignment in values and vision. Yang discusses the essential elements of running a successful restaurant business, emphasizing the importance of hard work, core values, and the Aloha spirit. He addresses challenges in labor and training, outlines growth strategies focused on real estate selection, and highlights the significance of understanding customer demographics. He also shares insights on operational excellence, the role of customer reviews, and the support provided to franchisees, all while maintaining a focus on the active lifestyle market fit for his brand.

Takeaways

• Peter Yang's family background in hospitality shaped his career.
• Hard work and operational excellence are key to success in restaurants.
• Customer service can transcend language barriers.
• The poke bowl concept was a response to changing consumer preferences.
• Franchising was not initially part of the plan for Pokeworks.
• Effective marketing relies heavily on word of mouth and social media.
• The importance of a strong franchisee support system.
• Selecting franchise partners requires alignment in core values.
• The restaurant industry is a long-term commitment with franchisees.
• Pokeworks aims to innovate while keeping operational costs low. Understanding that it takes hard work is crucial for success.
• Core values like attention to detail and positivity are essential.
• Labor challenges require innovative training solutions.
• Real estate selection is a key bottleneck for growth.
• Understanding customer demographics helps in site selection.
• Operational excellence is vital for customer retention.
• Customer reviews are a leading indicator of success.
• Franchisee support is crucial for brand consistency.
• Active lifestyle markets align well with healthy food offerings.
• Building a strong franchise network is essential for growth.

Summary

In this conversation, Veljko Pavicevic shares his inspiring journey from Montenegro to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the hospitality industry in America. He emphasizes the importance of gratitude, humility, and hard work, as well as the value of community and teamwork. Veljko recounts his experiences at the Ritz Carlton, highlighting the lessons learned about exceptional service and the significance of treating every interaction as part of a legacy. In this conversation, Veljko Pavicevic and Wil Brawley discuss the mindset required for success in the restaurant industry, emphasizing the importance of resilience, leadership, and customer-centric practices. They share personal experiences and insights on overcoming challenges, the significance of writing and scheduling, and the value of building strong teams. The discussion also touches on the lessons learned from early successes and the pitfalls of ego, as well as the importance of community engagement and giving back. The also discuss the intricacies of building relationships in business, the importance of creating a legacy through employee ownership, and the critical role of training and recruitment in developing high-performance teams. They emphasize the need for clarity and focus in business endeavors, as well as the significance of understanding people to foster a successful work environment. The discussion culminates in life lessons about the importance of food and personal fulfillment in the restaurant industry.

Takeaways

• Veljko's journey from Montenegro to America showcases the power of hard work and determination.
• Gratitude and humility are essential traits for success in business.
• Running a successful business requires carrying a heavy cross, but it is rewarding.
• The importance of community and teamwork in achieving success.
• Experiences at the Ritz Carlton taught Veljko about high-level hospitality.
• Ego can hinder personal and professional growth.
• True joy comes from seeing growth in others.
• Tunnel vision and focus are crucial for seizing opportunities.
• Behaving as if you already have success is key to achieving it.
• A legacy is built through every interaction with others. Every interaction must be exceptional to succeed.
• Manifesting success requires consistent positive thoughts.
• Writing down goals enhances memory and focus.
• Scheduling personal time is crucial for productivity.
• 40 hours a week is just the beginning of work.
• The U.S. offers unparalleled opportunities for success.
• Resilience is key; show up despite challenges.
• Building revenue is harder than buying it.
• Expertise is more valuable than money in business.
• Community engagement is essential for business success. Building relationships is key to entering the business world.
• Creating a legacy involves empowering employees through ownership.
• Training is essential for developing high-performance teams.
• Recruiting the right people is more important than just hiring.
• Understanding people is crucial for business success.
• Clarity and focus are vital for achieving business goals.
• Food is a fundamental aspect of the restaurant industry.
• It's important to want what you like in life.
• Respect and trust are foundational in team dynamics.
• A successful business reflects the values and character of its founder.

Summary

In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, host Wil Brawley speaks with Chrissy Ouellette, VP of Business Development and Enterprise Sales at Touchpoint. They discuss Chrissy's journey in the hospitality tech industry, the evolution of restaurant technology, and the importance of personal connections in the hospitality sector. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating corporate structures, the phenomenon of tech fatigue in the restaurant industry, and the need for tech audits to streamline operations. Chrissy shares insights into Touchpoint's unique approach to restaurant solutions, emphasizing the benefits of having a single vendor for multiple services. In this conversation, Chrissy and Wil discusses the innovations in fast casual dining, the challenges of tech debt in restaurant technology, and the potential impacts of mergers and acquisitions on the restaurant industry.. The discussion also touches on the significance of authenticity in sales and the launch of a new podcast, 'Bite Size and Bossy', aimed at empowering women in the industry.

Takeaways

• Chrissy's journey began at a young age in hospitality.
• The restaurant industry is evolving with technology.
• Personal connections enhance customer experiences.
• Navigating corporate structures can be challenging.
• Tech fatigue is a real issue in restaurants.
• Auditing tech vendors can improve profitability.
• Touchpoint offers a holistic solution for restaurants.
• The importance of transparency in business relationships.
• Emerging brands benefit from Touchpoint's services. The fast casual dining space is evolving with innovative tech solutions.
• Tech debt can hinder growth and efficiency in restaurant tech.
• Restaurant owners are incredibly resilient despite industry challenges.
• Building a sustainable business is more important than chasing an exit strategy.
• Authenticity in sales fosters trust and credibility with clients.
• Women in the restaurant industry need a platform to share their stories.
• Balancing work and personal life is a challenge for working moms.
• The restaurant industry is facing significant regulatory pressures.
• Successful businesses focus on their strengths and target the right audience.

Summary

In this conversation, Shahpour Nejad, the founder and CEO of Pizza Guys, shares his journey from an immigrant student to a successful entrepreneur in the pizza industry. He discusses the challenges and strategies involved in establishing and expanding Pizza Guys, emphasizing the importance of quality, customer interaction, and community engagement. Shahpour also highlights the significance of selecting the right franchisees and maintaining consistency in service and product quality to thrive in a competitive market. In this conversation, Shahpour Nejad discusses the growth and expansion of Pizza Guys, focusing on their strategic plans for entering the Texas market and the importance of location and operator success in the franchise model. He emphasizes the significance of quality control, community engagement, and the challenges faced in the restaurant industry, particularly in California. Nejad also shares insights on franchisee support, financial considerations, and the overall vision for the brand's future.

Takeaways

• Shahpour Nejad's journey from Iran to the pizza industry is inspiring.
• Quality and customer service are key to success in the pizza business.
• Understanding local tastes is crucial for product development.
• Franchising was a pivotal step for Pizza Guys' expansion.
• Social media plays a significant role in brand awareness.
• Customer interaction enhances loyalty and satisfaction.
• Franchisees must be hands-on, especially in the early stages.
• Community engagement fosters brand loyalty and recognition.
• Consistency in product quality is essential for repeat business.
• Successful franchisees share a commitment to quality and customer service. Expansion into Texas is a key focus for Pizza Guys.
• Operator effectiveness is crucial for franchise success.
• Franchisees receive comprehensive support and training.
• Location selection is critical for restaurant success.
• Economic challenges in California impact operations.
• Quality of ingredients is prioritized in menu offerings.
• Community involvement enhances brand loyalty.
• Franchisees must have financial reserves for stability.
• SBA loans are becoming more accessible for franchisees.
• A strong team is essential for sustained business success.

Summary

In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, host Wil Brawley interviews Troy Hooper, CEO of Hot Palate and Pepper Lunch. They discuss Troy's unique background, including his experiences as a master diver and chef, and how these experiences shape his approach to business. The conversation delves into the challenges of the restaurant industry, the importance of remaining calm under pressure, and the growth trajectory of Pepper Lunch as it expands internationally. Troy shares insights on the franchise model, the selection of partners, and the realities of operating a franchise in the hospitality sector. In this conversation, Hooper discusses the intricacies of running a restaurant business, focusing on market dynamics, operational efficiency, real estate challenges, networking within the industry, and the importance of maintaining a work-life balance. He highlights the unique opportunities in various markets, the simplicity of operations that reduce labor costs, and the strategic approach to selecting real estate locations. Brawley also emphasizes the value of networking with industry peers and the significance of hospitality in all business sectors, while sharing his personal strategies for managing time and family life.

Takeaways

• Troy Hooper emphasizes the importance of calmness under pressure in both diving and business.
• Diving experiences have taught Troy critical thinking and planning skills applicable to business.
• The restaurant industry requires a strong foundation of systems and processes for success.
• Troy's journey from culinary school to CEO showcases the importance of diverse experiences.
• Pepper Lunch is rapidly expanding, with a focus on the U.S. market for future growth.
• The franchise model at Pepper Lunch requires experienced multi-unit operators for success.
• Troy believes in a collaborative approach with franchise partners to ensure mutual success.
• The challenges of international growth include navigating different laws and regulations.
• Troy's philosophy is to invest in training and support for franchisees to mitigate risks.
• The selection process for franchise candidates is thorough to ensure long-term success. Running a restaurant varies significantly by location.
• The DC metro area presents untapped market potential.
• Operational simplicity leads to lower labor costs.
• Real estate selection is critical for long-term success.
• Networking with industry leaders is invaluable.
• Every business should prioritize hospitality.
• Time blocking helps manage a busy schedule.
• Maintaining work-life balance is essential for success.
• Data-driven decisions enhance market understanding.
• Franchise opportunities can be streamlined with the right systems.

Summary

In this conversation, Wil Brawley interviews Ross McWaters, the founder of a business news website focused on the restaurant industry in Florida and Georgia. Ross shares his journey from working in restaurants to starting his own business, emphasizing the importance of building relationships with restaurant owners and providing value through his services. The discussion covers the challenges of cold calling, the significance of focus in business growth, the complexities of the restaurant tech landscape, and the realities of restaurant ownership. Ross also touches on funding challenges for new restaurants and the dynamics of franchise relationships. The conversation concludes with a philosophical reflection on the purpose of entrepreneurship, illustrated by the parable of the fisherman and the MBA.

Takeaways

• Ross McWaters has a background in restaurant work and journalism.
• His business focuses on connecting new restaurants with vendors and sponsors.
• Building relationships with restaurant owners is crucial for success.
• Cold calling can be challenging but is often necessary for outreach.
• Focus and deliberate growth are key to sustainable business development.
• The restaurant tech landscape is crowded and complex.
• Restaurant ownership involves many challenges and uncertainties.
• Funding for new restaurants can be difficult to navigate.
• Franchise relationships can limit vendor choices for restaurant owners.
• Building a business for greatness rather than for an exit can lead to more fulfillment.

Summary

In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, host Wil Brawley speaks with Jay Chung, a restaurant owner with a rich immigrant background. Jay shares his family's journey from Korea to Ghana and then to the United States, where they established their roots in the restaurant business. The conversation delves into the challenges of restaurant ownership, the importance of finding balance in life, and the impact of COVID-19 on the industry. Jay emphasizes the significance of creating emotional connections with guests, building a strong team culture, and the value of feedback and adaptability in achieving success. He also reflects on the importance of independent restaurants in fostering community and the lessons learned throughout his journey.

Takeaways

• Jay's family background shaped his appreciation for the restaurant business.
• Cultural transitions can be challenging but rewarding.
• Finding balance in the restaurant industry is crucial to avoid burnout.
• COVID-19 forced many restaurants to adapt quickly to survive.
• Understanding customer demographics is key to success.
• Creating emotional connections with guests enhances their experience.
• Building a strong team culture is essential for operational success.
• Economic challenges require adaptability and resilience.
• Feedback from customers can lead to significant improvements.
• Independent restaurants play a vital role in community building.